Explore the Majestic Cwm Idwal: A Natural Wonder
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cwm Idwal, a stunning ravine in Snowdonia National Park, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature exploration.
Cwm Idwal is a breathtaking natural ravine located near Bangor, Wales, known for its stunning scenery, rich biodiversity, and excellent hiking trails. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this picturesque location offers serene views and a chance to connect with nature.
A brief summary to Cwm Idwal
- Bangor, GB
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Bring a packed lunch to enjoy by Idwal Lake while soaking in the views.
- Check the weather forecast before heading to Cwm Idwal, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Respect the natural environment by sticking to marked trails and not disturbing wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
From Bangor, take the A5 road heading south towards Capel Curig. Continue on the A5 for about 10 miles until you reach the junction for the A4086. Turn left onto the A4086 towards Llanberis. Follow the A4086 for approximately 3 miles, then turn left onto the B4409 towards Cwm Idwal. There will be signs for the Cwm Idwal car park. The car park is located at the end of the B4409. Note that there is a parking fee of approximately £5 for the day.
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Public Transportation
From Bangor, take the Arriva Trains Wales service towards Llandudno Junction or Machynlleth. Alight at Llanberis station. From Llanberis, you can catch the 85 Bus Service (operated by Snowdon Sherpa) towards Betws-y-Coed. Get off at the Cwm Idwal stop. The bus service runs regularly, but check the latest schedule for specific times. A return bus ticket will cost around £5.50.
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Walking (from car park)
Once you have parked at the Cwm Idwal car park, follow the marked trails leading into Cwm Idwal. The paths are well-maintained and suitable for walkers of all levels. A popular route is the circular walk around the lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the unique geology of the area. The walk is approximately 2 miles long and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
Discover more about Cwm Idwal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Carnedd Dafydd
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Snowdon Massif
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Plas y Brenin - National Outdoor Centre
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Walk Snowdonia
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Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
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Ogwen Gatehouse
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Gwydir Forest Park
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GreenWood Family Park
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Aberglaslyn - National Trust
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Ffestiniog Railway - (Blaenau Festiniog, Station)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Llyn Idwal
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YHA Idwal Cottage
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Canolfan Cwm Idwal
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National Trust - Carneddau and Glyderau
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National Trust - Ogwen Cottage
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Llyn Ogwen
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Tryfan
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Dyffryn Ogwen
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Pen y Pass Warden Centre
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Pen-y-Pass
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Nant Ffrancon Pass
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Dinorwig Slate Quarry
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Garnedd Ugain
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Dinorwic Slate Quarry
5.2 km
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Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point
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Essential places to dine
Vaynol Arms
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Platform Grill
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Peak Restaurant
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Bwyty Blondin Restaurant
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Caffi Gwynant
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Cwellyn Arms
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Y Glyntwrog Inn
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Gors Bach Inn
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Ty'n Rhos Restaurant
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Y Bistro yn yr Hebog
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Caffi Colwyn
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Tŷ Golchi
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Garden Hotel & Cantonese Restaurant
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The Mill Bistro Y Felin
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowdon Trading Post
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Snowdon Railway Station Shop
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Siop Awyr Acored The Outdoor Shop
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Joe Brown Shop
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Crib Goch Outdoor Shop Llanberis
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Fandangles Gift Shop
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Ellis Brigham - Capel Curig
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The Bethlehem Shop
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Crib Goch Outdoor Shop Beddgelert
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Menai Retail Park
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Enchantment
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Tanronnen Inn
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Garddfon Inn
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Bar Uno
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Patricksbar.com
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Pont Y Pair Inn
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